There’s a special kind of magic that unfolds when your best friend, your confidante, your partner in crime, comes to visit. It’s an eagerly anticipated event, a promise of laughter, shared stories, and creating new, cherished memories. For me, the formula for such an occasion is simple yet profoundly satisfying: Eat, Shop, Drink, and then, without hesitation, Repeat. This past weekend, my incredible best friend Allie graced Denver with her presence, and to say we had an absolutely phenomenal time would be a monumental understatement. Our time together, though fleeting, was a vibrant whirlwind of joy, connection, and exploration, cementing our bond and reminding me why she’s truly one of a kind.
Allie and I don’t get to see each other as often as we’d like, given the miles that separate us, but when our paths do cross, it’s as if no time has passed. We pick up exactly where we left off, effortlessly diving into deep conversations, shared jokes, and adventurous outings. I often count my blessings for having Allie in my life; she possesses a rare combination of being an exceptional listener, offering thoughtful advice, and radiating genuine kindness. Beyond her invaluable friendship, she also boasts an impeccable sense of style and an innate flair for fashion. I often joke that she’s destined to be a top fashion stylist to the stars someday – move over, Rachel Zoe! While the weekend seemed to fly by in a blink, every moment spent with my best friend was truly invaluable.
Our epic Denver adventure kicked off on a late Thursday evening when Allie flew in from Kansas City. The air was thick with excitement as we welcomed her, immediately settling into comfortable conversation, punctuated by genuine giggles and shared stories. We toasted to the exciting weekend ahead with a glass of bubbly, the clinking of glasses symbolizing the start of what we knew would be an unforgettable getaway. The anticipation for the days to come was palpable, a delightful hum beneath our chatter as we planned our culinary and shopping conquests.
Friday: A Culinary Journey and Boutique Adventures in the Mile High City
Our Friday began with a delightful culinary excursion to Mona’s, a charming spot perfect for a relaxed morning meal. We affectionately dubbed it a “little birthday brunch” for Mr. B, playfully announcing his “twenty-first” birthday – a running gag that always brings a smile. The atmosphere at Mona’s was inviting, with a cozy ambiance that perfectly set the tone for our day. For my part, I indulged in the classic Eggs Benedict, a dish I find utterly irresistible. Seriously, is there anything more comforting and luxurious than perfectly poached eggs, adorned with a luscious drizzle of hollandaise sauce, all resting atop a toasted English muffin? Each bite was a symphony of flavors and textures, a perfect start to a day of exploration.
Over our leisurely brunch, we observed that the Denver weather was nothing short of glorious – crisp, sunny, and utterly inviting. This sparked an impromptu decision to explore some of the city’s unique boutique shops. Denver boasts a treasure trove of hidden gems, especially along Broadway, where independent stores offer everything from killer accessories to one-of-a-kind vintage clothing. It’s a refreshing alternative to the typical mall experience, offering a more curated and exciting shopping adventure.
Discovering Unique Finds on Broadway
As we browsed, Allie, with her keen eye for fashion, discovered an absolutely divine faux fur vest at Buffalo Exchange that was truly to die for. Its texture and style were irresistible, perfectly embodying her chic aesthetic. Meanwhile, I found myself drawn to Starlet, a boutique brimming with unique jewelry. I ultimately left with two stunning necklaces that added just the right touch of sparkle to my collection. If you’re ever in Denver and crave a distinctive shopping experience that veers off the well-trodden mall path, I wholeheartedly recommend venturing down Broadway. You’re bound to unearth some incredible finds that speak to your individual style.
With our dinner reservations at TAG set for a fashionable 8 PM, we had ample time to enjoy a relaxed happy hour. Our destination was Linger, a Denver staple known for its incredible rooftop bar. The views from Linger’s rooftop are simply breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the city skyline as the day transitions into evening. We settled in, sipping on expertly crafted cocktails, sharing plates of delectable sliders, and indulging in crispy sweet potato fries. As the sun began its descent, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple, we reveled in the moment, the perfect blend of good company, great food, and stunning scenery.
Later that evening, our culinary journey continued at TAG Restaurant, a highly acclaimed spot renowned for its innovative cuisine and sophisticated ambiance. This is the point where I’d love to share vivid photos of the exquisite dishes we savored and the festive “Happy Birthday” celebration for Mr. B. However, my phone, in its infinite wisdom, decided it was time for an early bedtime, running out of battery just as we arrived. It was a classic “note to self” moment: always, always charge your phone, especially when important events and delectable meals are on the agenda! Despite the lack of photographic evidence, the flavors, the conversation, and the overall experience at TAG were truly memorable, leaving us with a satisfying glow as we concluded our first full day.
Saturday: Brunch, Retail Therapy, and Game Day Thrills
Saturday morning beckoned with the promise of another delightful brunch. Allie, Mr. B, and I strolled down to LoHi Steak Bar, a spot we’d heard fantastic things about but had yet to experience ourselves. Let me tell you, LoHi Steak Bar did not disappoint. The menu offered a tempting array of options, but Allie and I both gravitated towards the huevos rancheros. Oh my goodness, they were absolutely delicious – a perfect harmony of spicy, savory, and satisfying. The dish was fresh, flavorful, and exactly what we needed to fuel up for the day.
A Wildcat Tradition and a Bloody Mary Delight
Adding to the morning’s festivities, it was a “Wildcat Saturday,” a special occasion for devoted fans. To properly celebrate, we decided to split a colossal Bloody Mary, a vibrant concoction that was almost a meal in itself. It was the perfect complement to our brunch, embodying the spirit of celebration and camaraderie that defines a best friend weekend. LoHi Steak Bar proved to be an excellent choice, offering both a delicious meal and a lively atmosphere that set a high bar for Saturday’s adventures.
With college football kick-off not until 5 PM, Allie and I seized the opportunity for some retail therapy. We made a strategic stop at the Gap, taking full advantage of a fantastic friends and family discount, which meant a glorious 40% off our purchases – hello, savings! I managed to snag some truly adorable pieces, including a comfortable yet stylish boyfriend oxford and a selection of items in fun, vibrant colors, all with an eye towards my upcoming Mixed Conference. Now, the real challenge begins: putting together chic outfits from my new finds. Any fashion advice is always welcome!
Electrifying Game Day Atmosphere at Highland Tap and Burger Bar
After our successful shopping excursion, time seemed to accelerate (a common occurrence on friend getaways!), and we swiftly made our way to the watch party at Highland Tap and Burger Bar. The air was thick with anticipation as our beloved Wildcats were set to face the TCU Horned Frogs. The stakes were incredibly high – with only three games remaining before the National Championship contenders would be decided, the Wildcats needed to secure a win to keep their dreams alive. The tension in the bar was palpable; every single person was on edge, a collective wave of nervousness sweeping through the room. No pressure, right? Thankfully, the Wildcats pulled off a thrilling victory, eliciting a collective sigh of relief and erupting cheers from the crowd. Oh, and did I forget to mention, we are now ranked #1? GO STATE! The energy and camaraderie of watching a big game with fellow fans is an experience unlike any other, making it a perfect highlight of our weekend.
Sunday: Farewell Brunch and Last-Minute Treasures
Sunday morning marked round three of our brunch marathon, a fitting send-off for Allie. We were all craving the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine and unanimously decided to head to Lola’s. Lola’s is a true gem, offering a lively atmosphere and an incredible menu. Our order was a symphony of brunch perfection: steaming hot coffee to kickstart the day, a delectable egg sandwich paired with crispy, golden potatoes, and the undisputed star of the show – their famous table-side guacamole bar. Watching our fresh guacamole prepared right before our eyes, customized to our liking, was an experience in itself, adding an extra layer of delight to our final meal together.
After a wonderfully satisfying brunch at Lola’s, the reality of Allie’s departure began to set in. To make the most of our remaining time and perhaps grab a few last-minute deals, Allie and I made one final shopping stop at the nearby outlet malls before heading to the airport. I took the opportunity to stock up on a handful of purple long-sleeved shirts, essential gear for the upcoming K-State basketball season. Here’s hoping the basketball team has as fantastic a season as our football team! The bittersweet feeling of a weekend drawing to a close was softened by the joy of our shared experiences and the promise of future visits.
Cherished Memories: The End of an Unforgettable Best Friend Weekend
And with that, our whirlwind best friend weekend in Denver came to a perfect close. From the delicious brunches and sophisticated dinners to the thrill of boutique shopping and the electrifying atmosphere of a college football watch party, every moment was filled with laughter, connection, and pure joy. Weekends like these are more than just a break from routine; they are precious opportunities to strengthen bonds, create lasting memories, and remind ourselves of the incredible value of true friendship. Seeing Allie off at the airport was tough, but our hearts were full of the wonderful moments we had shared. I hope this glimpse into our Denver adventure inspires you to plan your own unforgettable getaway with your bestie!
Here’s wishing all of you a fantastic weekend, filled with your own cherished moments and wonderful company!